Adolescent depression is a concern for most parents and guardians. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 15.1% of teenagers experience a major depressive episode yearly. About 36.7% of adolescents experience a feeling of sadness and hopelessness each year, while 18.8% may experience strong thoughts of committing suicide. With these staggering statistics, it is essential to address the issue of adolescent depression and provide effective treatment options.
One crucial aspect of addressing adolescent depression is seeking professional help. Massachusetts Center for Adolescent Wellness (MCAW) understands the challenges experienced by parents searching for credible depression treatment centers. To help teenagers get timely interventions and depression treatment, we have set up an adolescent center in Massachusetts that offers mental health treatment for adolescents.
When a teenager experiences depression, it not only affects the individual’s mental health but also interferes with their daily activities. Teenagers battling with depressive episodes can find it difficult to concentrate in school or may fail to maintain healthy relationships with family and friends. At MCAW, we provide a comprehensive depression treatment program that aims to help teenagers regain control of their lives and manage their symptoms. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us today at 855.940.6229 to find out if our center is a suitable fit for your child.
What Is Depression?
Depression is a common mood disorder that impacts a person’s feelings, thinking, and actions. In medical terms, severe depression is referred to as major depressive disorder (MDD). An adolescent has depressive disorder when a sense of sadness leads to a loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities. This progression needs to last for more than two weeks.
If the adolescents do not get help, they lose interest in school activities, use substances, or experience suicidal ideation. Depression is a treatable mental health condition that impacts many adolescents. At MCAW, we understand the unique challenges that young people face when it comes to mental health. Our team of professionals understands how depression can affect an entire family.
Depression has the potential to impact many areas of an adolescent’s life. Adolescents do not need to struggle throughout their young adulthood. They can find recovery and coping skills to help manage their depression symptoms.
We provide an adolescent depression treatment program in a non-threatening environment that encourages recovery and positivity. Our team of dedicated mental health professionals is committed to providing personalized treatment plans to meet the unique needs of each adolescent. We understand that every teenager has their own journey and struggles with depression, which is why we provide a compassionate and individualized approach to treatment.
Signs of Depression
Parents and guardians may experience challenges identifying signs of depression in teenagers. The difficulty in picking out depression signs arises from the confusion between regular behavioral changes in adolescence and depression signs. Conditions like thyroid disease and drug use may also mimic depression. Nevertheless, parents and guardians should seek adolescent depression treatment if they discover the following signs:
- Persistent negative mood
- Increased challenges at school
- Difficulty interacting with peers
- Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
- Sudden changes in sleep patterns or changes in appetite
- Low self-esteem
- Indulgence in alcohol, smoking, or abuse of other drugs
- Addition to smartphone
- Violence
- Suicide thoughts
The symptoms listed above must last two weeks to qualify as a depressive disorder. Notably, social media has been linked to depression. Therefore, monitoring social media use and cultivating a positive environment are crucial to promote mental health and well-being.
Types of Depression
At MCAW, we determine the type of depression according to the symptoms displayed by the young adult. Our centers provide help for the following types of depression:
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
Major depressive disorder is a more severe type of depression. Adolescents struggling with this type of depression show a wide range of symptoms. Young people may show signs like loss of interest in their normal activities, changes in appetite, sleep disturbance, or suicidal thoughts. This type of depression can be debilitating and requires immediate intervention.
Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD)
Teenagers struggling with DMDD may have been misdiagnosed with childhood bipolar disorder. The central marker for DMDD is that adolescents and children may show outbursts of anger. These outbursts typically seem bigger than the outbursts their peers may have. Teens with DMDD may seem irritable and have problems following the rules or authority. They may also show signs of aggressive behavior and reactions that seem out of control.
Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD)
Persistent depressive disorder, also known as dysthymia, is a chronic form of depression lasting more than two years. Adolescents with PDD may experience persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness along with other symptoms commonly associated with depression. Our team at MCAW has experience in treating PDD and can provide effective long-term management strategies.
What to Expect from Teen Depression Treatment
At Massachusetts Center for Adolescent Wellness, our depression treatment program for teenagers is designed with the understanding that each young person’s experience with depression is unique. When undergoing our program, you can expect a customized approach to treatment that includes therapy, medication management, and lifestyle changes as appropriate.
We start with a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation to understand the nature and severity of your child’s depression. This helps us create a treatment plan that addresses their specific needs. Throughout the process, our compassionate team supports and guides your teen, helping them build resilience, improve their mental health, and regain their quality of life.
Advantages of an Adolescent Depression Treatment
Choosing an adolescent depression treatment program has several advantages, such as:
- Specialized care – Our program is tailored to meet the unique needs of teenagers, considering their developmental stage and other factors that may impact their mental health.
- Support system – Our team provides a supportive environment for adolescents, encouraging them to open up about their experiences and feelings without fear of judgment. This helps build trust and promotes healing.
- Holistic approach – Our programs combine therapy, medication management, and lifestyle changes to address the physical, emotional, and social aspects of depression.
- Long-term benefits – By addressing depression early on with effective treatment, teenagers are better equipped to manage their symptoms in the long run and improve their overall well-being.
As we navigate the path of adolescent depression together, our main goal at MCAW is to support your teenager toward achieving a healthier, happier future equipped with the tools to manage their mental health effectively.
Contact Massachusetts Center for Adolescent Wellness to Enroll in Our Depression Treatment Program in Massachusetts
If you are seeking professional help for your teenager’s depression, look no further than MCAW. Our team of experienced mental health professionals provide effective treatment and support to help teenagers overcome their struggles with depression. We understand that reaching out may be challenging, but taking this step can make all the difference in your child’s life. Call us today at 855.940.6229 to learn more about our adolescent depression treatment program and how we can help your family.
